Big Books of Spring
The Old Drift

Questions About The Old Drift

by Namwali Serpell (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (3)

Grew up in Zambia, so very eager to get this book. Any have a copy ?
Shaliza Riley Got my free read from the library
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The character Grace is alluded to as having committed some kind of offense or dishonor. Was that ever made clear?
M it was never mentioned/revealed
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Why was this book so long? I felt like it was dragged out. I'd love to know your thoughts if you believe that The Old Drift would have gotten the same message over in a shorter length.
Maureen H I think there's a tradition of multi-generational sagas that this book falls under. They're long with a purpose; to an extent the intention is to do s…moreI think there's a tradition of multi-generational sagas that this book falls under. They're long with a purpose; to an extent the intention is to do somewhat disparate deep dives into different characters, and show how they all interact from different perspectives; then, as the book progresses, you can see the impacts of one generation's actions and ideas on the next, usually within larger political contexts. I think it would be hard to do this well if you keep it short. But maybe in the future, watch out for the words "multi-generational" or "grand sweep of time" if it's not your thing, they're not for everyone!(less)
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Unanswered Questions (3)

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